Written by Michael Feder
Reviewed by Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP, Dean, College of Business and IT
Cloud computing relies on shared resources hosted at remote data centers rather than local servers and installed software. Users access storage, databases, software and applications through the internet instead of installing them on a hard drive via download or disk.
The primary advantage of this approach is that it does not require organizations to maintain their own data centers and servers. Individuals who use cloud services do not need to download, install or update the software on their computers and devices because everything is updated and maintained off-site.
In this way, cloud computing reduces the cost of IT operations by limiting on-site requirements and reducing the need for specialized staff to maintain hardware and update software. Cloud computing can be particularly useful in an era when remote work is so popular. Companies can store data and files in the cloud and allow employees to access them at any time through a remote connection. Multiple employees can also collaborate on documents or other projects from separate locations.
It is also possible to host software, applications or virtual desktops on a cloud-based platform, allowing users to access and use the tools even though they have not downloaded them on their computer or device.
So, as more businesses realize the benefits associated with cloud computing, there becomes a need for professionals to enter the field. Here is a deeper look at reasons why tech-minded people may consider a career in cloud computing.
Cloud computing is more than a trend. Enterprises are making it an integral part of their business operations. In 2022, a report found 57% of companies prioritized migrating workloads to cloud environments, while 42% focused on moving to cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) instead of relying on software and digital systems installed on-site.
These investments coincide with a demand for skilled cloud computing professionals. And those professionals can build a variety of skills. For example, cybersecurity specialists focus on keeping data safe. Network engineers, architects and administrators, on the other hand, have a different focus and projection. Those professionals focus on building, designing and maintaining cloud systems.
IT professionals who are working on a degree, seeking their first entry-level job or already employed can pursue a cloud computing certificate to learn about cloud computing.
Cloud computing is becoming more common in many industries, and as of 2022, is quickly taking up the majority of data storage solutions, with 60% of all corporate data being stored on the cloud. Here are some of the well-known industries adopting cloud platforms for their operations.
You can find hands-on cloud computing roles in all these different industries. And cloud professionals may also find that their skills are transferable. For example, network support specialists and technicians are necessary to ensure access to the cloud and troubleshoot if problems arise.
All organizations needing to migrate their systems from on-site software and server models to the cloud need cloud network engineers to handle the transformation and make any necessary customizations.
If cloud computing interests you, there are several roles that utilize these skills. Here are just a few tech jobs that you might find in the cloud industry:
*University of Phoenix does not educationally prepare students to become programmers at this time.
Cloud computing is a field with many opportunities for fulfillment. Here are just a few possible perks of choosing this career.
A degree in a relevant tech field is the first step toward one of these growing technical careers. Common degrees for this field are a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
Cloud computing allows you to specialize in a specific area, which can increase your attractiveness to certain employers seeking particular skills.
One option for learning specific skills is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in IT. This course of study will expose you to the subjects that are essential for IT success, including cybersecurity, systems analysis and IT operations.
A degree provides an introduction to these vital cloud-related subjects. You can then hone your skills in security, database administration or software engineering, depending on your area of interest and skills.
You can also focus on unique specialties, like big data, which involves collecting, processing and using huge amounts of information collected by a company or organization.
In addition to continuing education programs, you can use boot camps and industry certification programs to learn new skills and get additional credentials that can help you stand out in a specific area.
Cloud computing offers a variety of job opportunities that go beyond what graduates and professionals can expect from most careers. In addition to in-house, office-based IT department jobs, cloud experts can pursue different arrangements, such as working from home.
For example, third-party providers offer SaaS and PaaS subscriptions to companies and organizations. Many smaller companies take advantage of these services instead of investing in an on-site IT team.
Cloud computing workers may also find freelance and contract opportunities. Some companies seek specialists for specific tasks, such as migrating company databases to the cloud. Systems engineers with the ability to perform this task are in high demand, especially with small or mid-size firms without the budget or need for a full-time engineer on staff. Such opportunities give cloud specialists with enough experience the chance to build their own businesses based on their skills.
Many cloud companies seek the best talent regardless of location. Developers, administrators, engineers and security specialists are often able to work remotely because their duties involve configuring, programming and monitoring the cloud, which they can do from any location with a stable internet connection. Telecommuting arrangements may be attractive to people who want the ability to work from home.
The field of cloud computing will likely continue to grow as more companies and organizations try to take advantage of the scalability, efficiency and lower costs of cloud-based systems. Professionals with general IT degrees, professional certifications, training and specific knowledge of cloud systems or related specialties can take advantage of this trend and may find rewarding jobs in the field.
If you’re interested in pursuing a job in information technology or learning more about cloud computing, University of Phoenix offers various online degrees and certificates in the following fields of study.
A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and its Writing Seminars program and winner of the Stephen A. Dixon Literary Prize, Michael Feder brings an eye for detail and a passion for research to every article he writes. His academic and professional background includes experience in marketing, content development, script writing and SEO. Today, he works as a multimedia specialist at University of Phoenix where he covers a variety of topics ranging from healthcare to IT.
Currently Dean of the College of Business and Information Technology, Kathryn Uhles has served University of Phoenix in a variety of roles since 2006. Prior to joining University of Phoenix, Kathryn taught fifth grade to underprivileged youth in Phoenix.
This article has been vetted by University of Phoenix's editorial advisory committee.
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August 25, 2021 • 5 minute read